2024 Senior Inspiration Award Honoree

Phillip, 81, was born in San Francisco. The grandson of immigrants from Italy, he grew up in the North Beach and Visitacion Valley neighborhoods of the city.

Phillip’s working career began as a mechanical draftsman at GTE Lenkurt. He spent 18 years at GTE before moving on to Hewlett Packard designing microchips. In 1986, he began working for Micro Power Systems laying out microchips. In the process of arranging the components of computer chips, Phillip held the key role of lead mask designer for 30 of those years.

In 2005, in retirement, he made his way to the Coachella Valley with Patricia Mathews, his best friend and partner. They bought a house at Desert Collections and made Indio their home.

Phillip and Patricia have been together for 34 years. Patricia has a daughter, Kerri Martinez, and two grandchildren, Taryn and Tyler Martinez.

Phillip’s mechanical mind and a train hobby found a match with a volunteering opportunity, as he dedicated 10 years volunteering at The Living Desert in the train display.

Phillip volunteered for six years with the La Quinta Citizens on Patrol. For the last seven years, he has served closer to home with the Indio Police Department.

In addition to interacting with the community, fellow volunteers and police officers, volunteering contributes to Phillip’s continued good health, study and self-improvement.

Phillip’s interests also include cooking, woodworking and traveling. He has traversed Russia and has enjoyed visiting Las Vegas, Hawaii, Boston, New York, and New Orleans. His favorite spot in the world to visit is Venice, Italy, and he also enjoys Sicily, where his grandparents hailed from. 

Every year, the County of Riverside and the Coachella Valley's nine cities honor senior citizens 65 years of age and older who inspire others through their volunteerism and active engagement in the community. This annual event honors these unsung heroes for their ongoing contribution and dedication to our communities.

Eligible recipients must:

• Be at least 65 years old
• Reside and/or volunteer in nominating city
• Be actively involved in community affairs for a lengthy period of time
• Deserve to receive recognition and/or may not otherwise receive recognition for his or her service to the community
• Personify a healthy, active, and contributing attitude and lifestyle

Please visit the SIA website for more information.

SIA Past Recipients

2023 City of Indio Recipient: Sylvia Tenorio